Recently a local Campbell River family won $35.7 million dollars on a Lotto Max ticket.
They live a few blocks away from us. Campbell River is a small town and that is a lot of money. Everyone is talking about it. At the grocery store, on the sea walk, walking dogs. Everywhere, and most everyone.
I've heard people say crazy things. It seems everyone knows how this family should spend their money, and are even dividing it up for them. I can't even imagine what that kind of money does. I mean, let's be honest here. If I knew my brother had won 35 million dollars, I'd be hoping our mortgage would be paid off. But isn't that weird? It's not my money, I have no claim on it. But, I bet you'd be bitter if your sibling or friend won that kind of money, and didn't share. Isn't that weird!?! I heard someone say "I hope they spread it around", "I hope they remember the community center, the food bank.". I thought that was interesting or crazy. We all presume to think we know what to do, or what not to do, or what we'd do. But we don't.
In fact, I'm pretty sure I'd be the worst person to win the lotto. For real.
I realize that financial freedom comes with great rewards. Immense rewards. We all think, that would be the best gift. But would it? You may just find that, that amount of money would cause incredible grief and sleepless nights as well. You may want to pay off everyone's mortgages family, friends... but which friends. How many friends. Which family members? All of them? Some of them? Your favorites? I'd be willing to bet that a whole lot of trouble would come with a great big pile of money. Of course you could pay off all debts, buy some fancy things, charter planes, buy stuff, be rich, give to charity but... who knows what that really costs.
Would I pass up millions of dollars? Likely not. But, sitting here in my own little life I already know that my fortune is our health. Our baby. Our life. I've said it before, and I truly believe it. I've got no doubt that this lucky family will enjoy and LOVE their lucky little ticket. But, if you are envious, or jealous... I'd bet you could count your blessings RIGHT NOW and know that you already have your own fortune. Right where you are. Right now. Without lotteries.
I found this via Pinterest yesterday, and knew I had to share. "If you have food in your fridge, clothes on your back, a roof over your head and a place to sleep you are richer than 75% of the world." {Full Post HERE}
Just something to think about.
Here is my fortune. Smelling flowers and laughing at the wind.
